Apprentices in courses at South West Institute of TAFE will learn what it means to gamble responsibly, how to put strategies in place to reduce the risks associated with gambling and developing a support network within their industry.

Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation (VRGF) chief executive Serge Sardo said the campaign, which has been organised with the help of Incolink, who provide well-being and support services to apprentices, was an opportunity to talk about what it means to gamble responsibly.

“The significant increase in online betting and advertising has made it especially important to talk to young people about responsible gambling,” he said.

“Gambling is very visible now in our community and if people are planning to gamble, we want them to be informed about the practical ways to gamble without harm.

“Being informed allows individuals, the community and industry to make appropriate decisions about their gambling behaviour and for those who might be experiencing issues to know there is help available.”

Secondary students will also have the opportunity to learn more about the risks of gambling during their maths classes.

Teachers will be able to use new resources which can be integrated into student’s curriculum.

Consumer Affairs, Gaming and Liquor Regulation Minister Marlene Kairouz launched the resources on Monday, marking the start of Responsible Gambling Awareness Week.

They are designed for year 10 to 12 students, and use role playing in maths classes to challenge misconceptions around the chances of winning.

“Victorian school students will be able to do the maths for themselves, which helps them learn that gambling is a quicker way to lose money, than it is make it,” Ms Kairouz said. 

“Launching Responsible Gambling Awareness Week with these important teaching tools serves as a reminder that our kids are aware of gambling from a young age.”

The resources were developed by the VRGF and the Mathematical Association of Victoria.

They will be available to schools later this term to assist teachers with curriculum planning for 2017.